Today in the Connected Economy: Goodbye Facebook Pay, Hello Meta Pay

Meta, Facebook, location, nearby friends

Today in the connected economy, Meta Platforms announces plans to rename its Facebook Pay system to Meta Pay, while Airbnb launches a coalition to ensure its travelers’ safety. Plus, software investment firm Thoma Bravo buys FinTech Bottomline Technologies for $2.6 billion.

Facebook Pay Being Rebranded to Meta Pay

Meta Platforms plans to rebrand Facebook Pay — its payment system available across Facebook, Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp — as Meta Pay “soon,” according to a blog post from Stephane Kasriel, the company’s head of commerce and financial technologies. Meta’s platforms are used by businesses in 160 countries, said Kasriel.

Airbnb Intros Safety Advisory Coalition

Digital lodging marketplace Airbnb has launched a Trust and Safety Advisory Coalition (TSAC) to advise the company, give customers a feeling of protection while traveling and promote a reliable experience when using the service. Made up of 22 industry organizations, the coalition will advise Airbnb about community policies, products, support, resources and training.

Investment Firm Thoma Bravo Acquires FinTech Bottomline Technologies

Software investment firm Thoma Bravo has bought FinTech Bottomline Technologies for $2.6 billion in cash. Bottomline will lean on Thoma Bravo to expand the reach of its products suite, which helps businesses digitize how they pay and get paid. As part of the deal, Bottomline President Craig Saks will replace outgoing CEO Rob Eberle in that position, while Eberle will serve as a strategic adviser to Bottomline until the end of its fiscal year.